The former Porto attacker has long attracted admirers from across the continent, but the club supremo has so far valiantly fended off interest in the player's services.

Speaking to reporters in Bogota, Falcao revealed his gratitude for Cerezo's faith in him.

"I recognize the great effort Enrique Cerezo has made for me to stay at the club," the forward said. "And thank goodness our sporting results have been positive. We expect that to remain so until the end of the season."

Cerezo, meanwhile, was quick to point out that there is much more to los Colchoneros than their talismanic striker.

"He's the best striker in the world and belongs to Atletico," he told AS. "We are proud to have him on our team. But besides Falcao, Atletico has players of the highest level and it is right that we recognize their work. Our squad is very competitive.

"We have an extraordinary coach, a squad full of great players and the fans are always behind the team. There is a great spirit between the stands and the squad and this is always very important. It is imperative to the smooth running of the team."